Chapter 34 In Between

• Elsie walked briskly through the stone corridors, her heart light with triumph. She had overheard Robina's explosive confession, and now she had more leverage than ever.
• As she approached her and Ian's chambers, she allowed herself a satisfied smile. Their plan was working perfectly, and soon enough, Robina and Makael would be divided to pose any threat.
• But as she pushed open the heavy wooden door, her confidence was met with a harsh reality. Ian stood in the middle of the room, his face twisted in fury. Before she could react, he strode forward and slapped her across the face, the force of it making her stumble.